Discover the benefits of pistachio 

Discover the benefits of pistachio 

Often shunned because of its richness in lipids and reserved for aperitifs, pistachio is nevertheless a mine of benefits for our health which it is a shame to do without. The proof by five.

Pistachio is an ally of the immune system

Like other nuts, pistachios provide many benefits to the body. It contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals, ie active compounds contained in plants.

These different components give it a certain role in strengthening the immune system. The latter represents the first line of defense against infections. It stimulates the healing process and speeds up recovery. The concentrate of nutrients provided by pistachio improves the strength of the defenses and contributes to a good functioning of the immune system.

They are a source of complete protein

One serving of this nut (about 49 pistachios) provides 6 g of protein. This is an asset for athletes who can thus gently increase their daily amount of protein, as well as for vegetarians and vegans for whom this nut is an alternative to animal proteins.

"Especially since pistachios are a source of complete protein: they contain the 9 essential amino acids that the body cannot synthesize and which must therefore be provided through food," says Raphael Gruman, nutritionist-dietitian. "Thanks to this composition, the proteins present in pistachios benefit from excellent absorption."

They help to keep the line

Pistachios are a helping hand to shed a few extra pounds. These are the conclusions of an American study published in July 2020 in the journal Nutrients4. Their strengths? Their high fiber content: they contain more than 10% 2. However, these food substances have the advantage of swelling in the stomach, occupying a large part, which satisfies quickly and well. "Moreover, the PNNS program has developed a new consumption benchmark: a handful of oleaginous fruits per day in order to better manage your weight", specifies our expert. Eaten in muesli for breakfast, added to a starter of raw vegetables or taken as a snack in the afternoon, they limit cravings and our cravings for sweets. As an added bonus, fiber fights constipation, gently boosting sluggish bowel movements, which helps us keep our stomachs flatter.

They are an asset for the heart

90% of the fats in this oleaginous fruit are unsaturated fats2. The latter help lower the level of bad cholesterol in the blood, thus reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular disease: according to an American study, their daily consumption for 3 weeks lowers the level of bad cholesterol by 6% 5. They also have a high content of phytosterols, a substance that helps maintain normal cholesterol levels.

"With a rate of 210 mg per 100 g, they also contain more than all nuts!", Says Raphael Gruman. Another advantage: they contain 1020 mg of potassium / 100 g2, or 30% of the recommended daily allowance3. This nutrient helps regulate blood pressure. Finally, they contain antioxidants, such as polyphenols: these oppose the activity of free radicals and thus have a beneficial effect on the proper functioning of the heart.

A nut rich in vitamins and minerals

  Pistachios provide many vitamins (A, B, E) but also several minerals and trace elements such as zinc, potassium, magnesium, selenium, iron and copper. These nutritional properties participate in an optimal immune system, in a good functioning of the nervous system and in the regulation of arterial pressure.

Pistachio is therefore a very good anti-stress, anti-aging and anti-fatigue ally.

Pistachio: an aid to good intestinal transit

Pistachio is one of the richest nuts in dietary fiber. However, fibers have an important place in intestinal transit. They nourish the probiotics, that is to say the microorganisms of the intestinal flora that limit the proliferation of harmful microbes, present in the digestive system. Fiber therefore protects the body against infections of the digestive system.

Fiber also helps stimulate contractions in the intestine and promotes activity in the colon. Thus, pistachio, a source of fiber, prevents constipation and reduces the risk of colon cancer.

In addition, their functions help to lower the level of cholesterol in the blood and to have an optimal blood sugar level.